Wildfire protection system

Abstract

A fire protection system (10) for a building (1), in particular a family home, should provide improved fire protection for buildings allowing efficient protection of existing buildings at moderate costs. According to the invention, this is achieved, for each of a number of se- lected openings in the outer wall (2) of the building (1), with a protection panel (12) adapted in size to the respective opening and detachably mountable to the respective opening.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Wildfire protection system

[0003] The invention relates to a wildfire protection system for a building, in particular a family home.

[0004] In various regions of the world, wildfires become an increasing threat for buildings, in particular private or family homes. Two million forest fire events are registered worldwide every year. Until a few years ago, wildfires or wildfire dangers were seasonal, occurring in particular during a few weeks of the year in many regions of the world. Currently, wildfires increasingly occur during extended periods of time and in more unexpected regions. It is two developments, climate change and urban expansion that contribute to the risk of forest and wildfires isolated or combined depending on location. In many regions, climate change is increasing the likelihood of hot, dry conditions that will fuel wildfires. Wildfire seasons have already been lengthening around the world, and modelling predicts a significant increase in wildfire activity in high-risk geographic areas such as the western United States, Australia and southern Europe. Urban expansion is also exposing more people and assets to forest fires, while at the same time the main polluter of wildfires - humans - are moving to more and more fire-prone areas. In densely populated Europe, almost all forest fires (more than 85%) are started by humans. Globally, the urban area is growing twice as fast as the urban population.

[0005] In consequence, every year, wildfires endanger millions of homes and in general buildings around the world. It is estimated that in regions or countries like Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, USA, and Australia, a total of about 10,000,000 houses may be threatened by such wildfires. This trend is leading to an increased prevalence of extreme wildfire events, particularly during periods of severe weather - very intense wildfires that often result in very large, burned areas with significant impacts on human life and assets. Wildfires also break out in countries that have not previously been confronted with this phenomenon. In 2018, for example, between 20 and 200 times more land was burned in northern European countries than in previous years. Therefore, a widespread global need for protection against the damages created by wildfires exists. Currently, the available options for wildfire protection are limited and not sufficient. In conventional strategies, people protect homes during a wildfire relying on active fire-fighting concepts, typically based upon using tank water, water sprinklers, foam, or chemicals to suppress fires. Such active fire-fighting concepts or tools, however, are most of the times not effective and put human lives in great danger. For example, water tanks after some time run out of water, the electric generators might stop working, sprinklers might also spread water in the wrong direction, and in summary are not necessarily environmentally friendly (depending, e. g., on the materials such as foam used for fire extinction) and require access to resources like water, electricity, etc. In comparison, therefore, passive systems such as installing fireproof windows and doors may be considered preferable. Such passive systems, however, are too costly and primarily are an option for new construction, since they are too time consuming to retrofit older homes.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved wildfire protection system for buildings that allows efficient protection of both new and existing buildings at moderate costs.

[0007] In accordance with the present invention, this object is achieved by a wildfire protection system for a building, in particular a family home, comprising, for each of a number of selected openings in the outer wall of the building, a protection panel adapted in size to the respective opening and detachably mountable to the respective opening.

[0008] The invention is based upon the consideration that an efficient, cost-effective wildfire protection system that is adequate for both new and existing, potentially older houses should be designed in the way of a passive system. In order to provide a particularly efficient approach, in one aspect the invention recognizes that a wildfire preferably enters a house from the outside through doors, windows, any other openings in the building walls, and roofs. In one aspect, the invention suggests to focus on protecting these vulnerable parts of the home structure by providing a pre-installed “Solution” in the form of an individualized protection panel for each identified “weak spot”, i. e. an opening or the like, of the building. The panels in accordance with one aspect of the invention are intended to be installed “on demand”, i. e. in case of a wildfire, outside the home and in particular cover every single vulnerable point, i.e. window and doors in a building. This minimizes the chances that a wildfire enters a house and could destroy it. In particular, the concept of the invention takes into account aspects of fire protection research that describes the patterns of how wildfire penetrates a building structure. This is happening through “openings” doors, windows, roof, or other weak or weakened spots. Wildfire may enter a building through windows or doors left open due to sudden and unprepared evacuation, or through poorly designed or maintained roofs, attics and / or ventilation ducts. Further wildfire may enter a building by breaking windows or doors due to the heat and / or flames of the wildfire. This breakage can also be caused by other objects that are moved and transported at high speed during the fire and have great destructive force, thus destroying windows and doors. Flame, fire marks, or flying embers enter the home and cause internal ignition of curtains, furniture, paper, or other light fuel. This results in full involvement of a room, in the destruction of the room in question, the spread of fire to adjacent rooms and, ultimately, the burning down of the whole house if left unattended. Flames at the center of a wildfire have a temperature of more than 600°C, potentially about 815°C. The time it takes for a fire to pass through the area where a house is located is from a few seconds to a few minutes.. Taking this into account, in one aspect of the invention the house should be efficiently protected for this limited period of time in particular.

[0009] In one aspect of the invention, for each detected “weak spot”, i. e. for each selected opening like window or door, an associated protection panel is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the respective protection panel is adapted to the size of the respective opening such that it may be fittingly inserted to the respective opening, thereby being directly attachable to the inwards surfaces of such opening. In an embodiment preferred yet further, the size of the respective panel may be chosen such that the area covered by each panel is at least 105%, preferably about 110%, of the area of the respective opening or of a glass pane positioned within the respective opening. In other words, due to the (preferably slight) overlap of the panel with the outer frame surrounding the respective opening in the building or the glass elements in this opening, achieved by the suggested “oversize” dimension of the panel, complete coverage of the respective weak spot is achieved. In consequence, comprehensive stability and reliability during high stress situation as the wildfire one is achieved.

[0010] The protective panels, in accordance with embodiments of the invention, may be installed, in order to protect the house from the destructive effects of wildfire, in two ways:

[0011] 1. Directly on the wall of the house - externally or internally, or

[0012] 2. On the window frame. Further, yet in accordance with embodiments of the invention, there are three ways to apply the fire protection solution (sequence starting from the inside of the house to the outside of the house facing the fire):

[0013] 1. Window I shutter or roller shutter I Protection panel

[0014] 2. Window I Protection panel I shutter or roller shutter (in this case, the shutter or roller shutter could be destroyed by the wildfire, but the house is protected) and

[0015] 3. Protection panel I window I shutter or roller shutter (in this case, the window AND the shutter or roller shutter could be destroyed, but the house is still protected).

[0016] Ways 2 and 3 above are chosen in cases way 1 is not technically feasible. For example, when there is no balcony or it is difficult to install from the outside of the house etc.

[0017] In one aspect, the wildfire house protection system centers around preinstalled customized frames enveloped in a specialized heat-resistant material designed to shield all vulnerable entry points (doors and windows) from wildfire intrusion, thereby safeguarding buildings. The system, inclusive of frames, materials, and installation technique, in one aspect of the invention is meticulously prepared in advance to ensure tailored fit for each door and window, facilitating swift deployment when wildfire threats arise. If not in use, the protection panels may be stored conveniently within or near the house, thereby rendering the system readily deployable to safeguard doors and windows during wildfire events.

[0018] In one aspect of the invention, under consideration that the protection panels should be handled easily and effortless, in order to store them when not in use, the invention suggest a consequent light-weight build of the structures as a preferred technical characteristic. Accordingly, in a preferred embodiment, each protection panel comprises an outer support frame attachable to or insertable into the respective opening in the building. Preferably, the support frame in this structure may be made of aluminum. The frame in a preferred embodiment is adaptable for external installation, integration into the house structure, or attachment to window frames, ensuring stability and security during wildfire events. In a preferred embodiment fabricated from durable materials like aluminum, the frame according to individual aspects of the invention exhibits:

[0019] • High resistance to breakage.

[0020] • Lightweight for easy handling and transportation.

[0021] • Non-flammable properties, capable of withstanding intense heat and fire

[0022] The frames in a preferred embodiment may be custom-built to precisely fit each opening or window (in accordance with the size considerations mentioned above) and can be conveniently stored inside the house, in garages, in warehouses, or the like, facilitating and ensuring swift deployment in the event of a wildfire threat.

[0023] In one aspect of the invention, the connection or attachment means for the panels is designed in the way of a quick-connector system. Accordingly, quick, secure installation to the wall or skeleton of the building or the frame of the window is possible. This is doable due to the fact that well in advance specific modifications and installations be performed both to the fire protection system, panel frames, panel segments and to the building or window frame. In particular, if the respective panel is inserted into the opening by attaching it to the inner side walls of the window frame of the opening, snap-fit elements such as snap-fit or spring loaded bolts may be provided that upon mounting of the respective panel may be inserted into corresponding, pre-installed holes or openings in the building wall

[0024] Special care has been paid to the design of the whole system so that the installation of the specific panels by the user does not require any mechanical equipment, e.g. screwdriver, pliers, screws or tools, e.g. stones, other than the equipment provided and already integrated into the system.

[0025] In order to further improve the consequent light-weight design of the protection panels, in one aspect of the invention each panel comprises a heat shield membrane or sheath. In one aspect of the invention, the membrane is specifically designed to be lightweight so that the entire fire protection system can be designed as lightweight and thus will be easy to handle and transport. Further, the membrane may span the open width of the frame structure, while also completely enveloping the actual frame structure, thereby protecting the frame from the wildfire as well. In particular, it will protect it from the fire and heat that occur during a wildfire. As known, aluminum, in one aspect of the invention the preferred material selected for the frame, can stand high temperatures up to about 500°C. By covering it with the specialized fire and heat protection material, the much higher temperature that can appear during a wildfire will not destroy the support frame and thus collapse of the whole fire protection structure is avoided.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment and in accordance with one aspect of the invention, the respective panel may be designed to be installed at a distance of about 7 to 10 cm, or even more, from the glass pane of the respective window. As has been found out surprisingly, such distance will provide significant further insulating protection for the respective glass pane, even when under exposure from wildfire.

[0027] In accordance with preferred aspects of the invention, additional reinforcement bars supplementing the actual frame may be provided, made from the same material as the frame, horizontally and / or vertically on the panel frame. In one aspect of the invention, the heat shield membrane completely surrounds the additional reinforcement bars, thereby fully protecting them. The purpose of the additional reinforcement bars is to:

[0028] - Increase the stability of the panel, especially when manufactured in large sizes.

[0029] - Facilitate easier transportation and

[0030] - Provide greater stability in the connection of the two layers that make up the heat shield membrane.

[0031] In accordance with aspects of the present invention, and in order to achieve these requirements, the heat shield membrane may possess one or more of the following characteristics:

[0032] - Heat and Fire Resistance: Capable of withstanding direct exposure to extremely high temperatures and open flames. The temperature at the center of a wildfire can exceed 600°C, potentially reaching approximately 815°C, plus minus 100°C.

[0033] - Thermal Protection: Effectively reflects and / or absorbs high temperatures, ensuring that its back (cold) side, the one that faces the glass pane of the window, does not exceed 160°C during a wildfire. This is considered important to prevent window glass breakage, which occurs at temperatures above this threshold, thereby safeguarding the house from wildfire penetration and subsequent destruction.

[0034] - Durability: Resilient against tearing, disintegration, and destruction when subjected to embers and firebrands. Embers and firebrands, transferring heat and fire, can travel over

[0035] 2 km and remain active for several hours before and after the wildfire’s arrival.

[0036] - Structural Stability: Maintains stability upon deployment, even under airstrikes, strong winds, and other adverse conditions.

[0037] - Lightweight: Weighs no more than 1.5-2.5 kg / m2to facilitate easy transfer from storage and to avoid imposing structural burdens on the house.

[0038] - No Maintenance: Does not evaporate or require additional attention once deployed, regardless of the time lapse between deployment and the arrival of the fire threat.

[0039] - Long-lasting Effectiveness: Remains effective for hours, days, or even weeks, with no performance loss, protecting homes and structures from wildfires, ember attacks, firebrands, and radiant heat while homeowners are away and safe. - Reusability: Can be redeployed multiple times, provided it is not destroyed by wildfire, unlike single-use solutions such as water, foam, or powder.

[0040] - Environmental Friendliness: Ensures the property is not polluted with foam or hazardous chemicals that require extensive cleaning after a wildfire danger.

[0041] - Cost-effectiveness: Economically affordable for widespread use.

[0042] In order to achieve one or more of these design goals, in a preferred embodiment, the heat shield membrane or sheath may comprise a structure of at least two layers, wherein each layer serves specific purposes. In particular, a first layer is a shield layer, wherein a second layer is a reinforcement support layer. In a preferred embodiment, both layers are made of lightweight material. Further, the first or first layer in a preferred embodiment may incorporate graphite, aerogel, aluminum, or a blend of one or more of these components. This offers an exceptional fire resistance while maintaining a lightweight profile. Further, the second layer, which in a preferred embodiment may be positioned atop the first layer and thus, when mounted in the protection system, faces outwards from the building and therefore towards the fire, thus reinforcing the primary material, enhancing resistance to ember attacks and firebrands common during wildfires, ensuring comprehensive defense for the house and its glass windows. In a preferred embodiment, and in one aspect of the invention, the second layer may incorporate woven glass fabric reinforced with stainless steel, preferably coated with fire resistant aluminum.

[0043] In order to provide the full potential of the membrane comprising these layers, the layers should be combined appropriately in order to offer these layers in the form of a unified entity. Preferably, all of the characteristics should be simultaneously present and provided in the combination. Thus, the two layers should be connected such that the characteristics and benefits of both layers are fully utilized. Further, and in accordance with aspects of the invention, the first layer should be particularly protected. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, it may be taken into account that the membrane forming the first layer expands under high temperatures and fire, thus contributing to the further closure of any gaps that may not have been completely covered in the building's openings. This is another advantage of the fire protection system. The same fact, that the first layer expands under high temperatures and fire, results in reflecting heat and significantly reducing the fire and heat transmission. However, this expansion might make it vulnerable to strong winds or airstrikes, as it can become dislodged, allowing fire to enter the house. In order to compensate for this, the second layer may be provided to stabilize the first layer and prevent it or fragments of it from drifting away. Additionally, the first layer can wear off and begin disintegrating upon contact. The second layer then helps to maintain the stability and position of the first layer.

[0044] In one aspect of the invention, the layers may be attached together by various specific binding ways, depending on the specific materials that these layers consist of. In accordance with aspects of the invention, the membrane may integrate these layers into a single, cohesive solution, exhibiting all the specified characteristics identified above. Preferred implementation methods in accordance with aspects of the invention include:

[0045] Layer Bonding: Connecting the two layers using high-temperature double-sided tape.

[0046] Stitching: Sewing the layers together with high-temperature fire-resistant thread. Additional Stabilization: If necessary, additional reinforcement bars made of aluminum or equivalent materials may placed within the frame panel structure, thereby reinforcing it further. In a preferred embodiment, such additional reinforcement bars may be positioned in 20 or 30 cm intervals within the outer frame of the respective panel. These bars will be fully covered by the membrane to withstand high temperatures and will help keep the layers bonded and stabilized.

[0047] These binding methods will result in that the two or more layers become a single entity, increasing the capabilities, functionalities of it against fire, heat and resistance from wind, ember attacks etc.

[0048] In order to further improve easy and convenient handling of the fire protection system as well as storage when not in use, in one aspect of the invention the protection panels may be designed as segmented systems wherein each protection panel comprises a number of panel segments. In particular, each window or other opening may be equipped with protection panels each comprising two or if needed more panel segments, facilitating compact storage, easy handling, and efficient industrial production, since most of the panel segments that will be used to protect every opening can have standard dimensions. Further, such segmented design will provide an additional stability of the protection solution i.e. for covering big windows with dimensions of more than 3 meters to 7 meters, for example. Preferably, these panel segments of a protection panel are detachably connected to each other by a bolt connector system.

[0049] The panel frames of the protection panels, if they are very large in size, may have horizontal or vertical reinforcement bars made of the same material as the panel frames, i.e. aluminum, for: Increased structural rigidity.

[0050] Easier transport.

[0051] Additional support.

[0052] The creation and use of an auxiliary outer frame is also provided for in the following cases:

[0053] • When there is a very large opening that must be covered with multiple panel segments.

[0054] • Non-standard and / or inaccessible mounting surfaces.

[0055] Significant advantages that may be achieved with the suggested fire protection solution may be seen in that the solution, beyond being very efficient and cost-effective and therefore suitable for application to both new or existing buildings, is - in contrast to other concepts (based on water, foam, chemicals) - environmentally friendly. The suggested solution will not need electricity or water to operate and most important human presence. Further, the concept of the invention allows for efficient protection of both new and existing buildings at moderate costs and without risking human lives. Further, if necessary, the wildfire protection system can be implemented and installed for hours or even days before the wildfire danger occurs providing the needed time for the people to leave the danger area.

[0056] The concept of the present invention in particular takes into account findings of fire protection research that describe the patterns of how fire penetrates a building structure. This is happening though “openings” like doors, windows, or roof. Flames at the center of a wildfire have a temperature of more than 600°C and within seconds or minutes pass through the area of a house. Further, prior to wildfire seasons or potential threats, preparatory work may be undertaken to customize frames for individual windows. Such preparatory work may include the actual manufacturing of customized panels for each given building opening windows well before the start of the wildfire seasons or wildfire potential threats. This proactive approach allows first that the preparation of the fire protection solution will be done correctly and carefully, avoiding the stress situation in the context of an actual fire threat. All the needed time thus may be taken to make any additional changes and I or modifications. Besides, the rigorous technical testings, which will be performed to guarantee the technical aspects of the fire protection system, the members of the house will have the needed time to learn and train themselves of how to apply it and to ensure the efficient deployment and optimal protection of the building during emergencies. In summary, the suggested innovative wildfire protection system offers comprehensive defense against heat, fire, and ember attacks, safeguarding homes and occupants from potential devastation. Through meticulous design, material selection, and advanced preparations and testing ahead of wildfire events, the solution significantly reduces the risk of wildfire damage, providing invaluable peace of mind for homeowners in fire-prone regions. A major advantage of the system design to be a passive design may be seen in that, after installation and implementation, human presence at the very moment of fire impact is not necessary for protection, other than with active systems. Furthermore, this wildfire protection system can remain active and effective for days and even weeks. Thus, the protection system can be installed well before the fire hazard approaches the geographical area, i.e. days or weeks in advance. It can remain active or in place for a long period of time where there is a risk of the fire reappearing, i.e. for days and weeks. The features and details as explained above allow for the physical protection of the home and, at the same time, the protection of the owners and family members. It may be prepared, installed and tested well before a fire occurs. This allows for the proper implementation of the system and the training of the home's residents so that they can quickly and correctly apply it.

[0057] It is considered an important aspect and benefit of the invention that the design of the whole system enables the installation of the respective individual panels by the user without any requirements for any mechanical equipment, e.g. screwdriver, pliers, screws or tools, e.g. stones, other than the equipment provided and already integrated into the system.

[0058] Aspects and embodiments of the invention are explained in further detail in reference to a drawing. Therein,

[0059] Fig. 1 shows part of a wall of a building with an opening, in the embodiment shown a window, covered by a fire protection panel, in perspective view,

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a panel segment of the protection panel of Fig. 1 in exploded view,

[0061] Fig. 3 shows the part of the wall of Fig. 1 with attached fire protection panel in front view from the outside (Fig. 3a) and from the inside (Fig. 3b),

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a panel frame structure of the protection panel of Fig. 2, Fig. 5 shows a side view of the panel frame of an individual panel element of the protection panel of Figs. 2,4

[0063] Fig. 6 shows the protection panel of Figs. 2, 3a, 3b in mounted state in cross section in various ways of application (Fig. 6a: horizontal, Fig. 6b: vertical, Fig. 6c, 6d: different application modes),

[0064] Fig. 7 shows a heat shield membrane of the protection panel of Fig. 2 in cross section (Fig. 7a) and in explosive view (Fig. 7b),

[0065] Fig. 8 shows the part of a building wall with a fire protection panel, comprising two panel segments, attached in front view, with the fire protection panel comprising an additional outer frame,

[0066] Fig. 9 shows the support panel frame structure of the protection panel with additional reinforcement bars,

[0067] Fig. 10 the protection panel in cross section, and

[0068] Fig. 11 shows the fire protection panel and how it is installed on the wall of Fig. 1.

[0069] Identical parts are provided with identical reference numerals in all Figures.

[0070] The building 1 is shown in Fig. 1 only partly, with its front wall 2. As usual for buildings of the type of family homes or the like, the front wall 2, as well as the other walls of the building, comprises a number of openings such as doors or, as shown in Fig. 1 , windows 6. Depending on its location or site, the building 1 might be endangered by wildfires, and in order to protect the building from such exposure, the building 1 is equipped with a wildfire protection system 10. The fire protection system 10 is designed in the way of a passive system, based upon the insight and consideration that a wildfire preferably will enter the building 1 from the outside through the openings in the building walls, such as the window 6. Therefore, the fire protection system 10 focusses on protecting these vulnerable parts.

[0071] Based upon this concept, in the embodiment shown, the fire protection system 10 comprises, for the window 6 shown in Fig.1 as well as for each other of a number of selected openings in the outer wall 2 of the building 1 , an individualized protection panel 12 associated with the window 6 (or to any one of the other selected openings, respectively). The protection panel 12 is adapted in size to the respective opening, i. e. in Fig. 1 the window 6, and detachably mountable to the respective opening or the wall 2 of the building 1. In other words, the fire protection system 10 for the building 1 by provides a pre-fabricated, easy-to-install solution for fire protection in the form of an individualized protection protection panel 12 for each identified weak spot of the building 1. The protection panel 12, as well as the other panels not shown, in this concept are intended to be installed “on demand”, i.e. in case of a wildfire, outside the building 1 and in particular cover every single vulnerable point, i.e. window 6 and doors in the building 1.

[0072] The (or each) protection panel 12, in accordance with one aspect of the invention, is constructed in a multi-segment design in which the respective protection panel 12 comprises a number of panel segments 18. This design concept in a particular, preferred aspect of the invention, allows for high flexibility regarding the configuration of individual panels (according to the specific demands of an individual protection panel 12, number and relative positioning of the panel segments 18 may be chosen appropriately) while being particularly suitable for mass production technologies. In particular, the panel segments 18 may be produced as standard elements in high production numbers, thereby reducing the production costs considerably. The individualization of the respective protection panel 12 may then be effected by appropriate selection of the number and relative positions of the respective (standardized) panel segments 18.

[0073] Accordingly, depending on the individual use case, the fire protection system 10 may comprise one or more protection panels 12, each of which may comprise one or more panel segments 18. This includes the extreme special situation in which only one opening 6 in the building 1 needs to be covered by a one-component protection panel 12; in this particularly use case the protection system 10 is equivalent to the one (and only necessary) protection panel 12 which in turn (since it is a one-component protection panel 12) is equivalent to the one (and only necessary) panel segment 18.

[0074] In general, there are three ways to apply the fire protection solution (description starting from the inside of the house to the outside of the house facing the fire):

[0075] 1. Window I shutter or roller shutter I Protection panel,

[0076] 2. Window I Protection panel I shutter or roller shutter (in this case, the shutter or roller shutter may be damaged during the fire, but the house is protected) and 3. Protective panel I window I shutter or roller shutter (in this case, the window AND the shutter or roller shutter may be damaged during the fire, but the house is protected).

[0077] Ways number 2 and 3 are selected in cases where it is not technically feasible to apply No. 1.

[0078] As can be seen from the exploded view shown in Fig. 2, the or each panel segment 18 of the respective protection panel 12 in accordance with one aspect of the invention is built in a particularly light-weight design in order to allow for relatively easy and convenient handling. For this reason, the respective panel segment 18, as its essential components, comprises a panel frame 14 and a heat shield membrane 15 covering both the panel frame 14 and the opening surrounded thereby. The membrane 15, in other words, spans the open width of the frame structure 14 of the respective panel segment 18, while also completely enveloping the actual frame structure 14, thereby protecting the frame 14 as well, thus providing complete protection from fire and heat (Fig. 10).

[0079] The protection panel 12, by proper selection and combination of its panel segments 18, is adapted to the size of the window 6 it is associated with. In one embodiment of the invention, the protection panel 12 may be designed such that the area covered by the protection panel 12 is at approximately 110% of the area of the window 6. In consequence, an overlap of the protection panel 12 with the window frame 16 surrounding the window 6 in the wall 2, achieved by the resulting “oversize” dimension of the protection panel 12, is created which ensures complete coverage of the weak spot as defined by the window 6 even if mounting of the protection panel 12 is done under emergency conditions and the time and / or psychological pressure or hectic associated therewith.

[0080] In another, preferred embodiment, which is shown in Fig. 3, the size and contour of the protection panel 12 may match the surface area of the window 6 more or less exactly, such that it may be fittingly inserted into the window frame 16 surrounding the respective window 6 in the wall 2. In this embodiment, the area covered by the respective protection panel 12 may nevertheless be larger, preferably at least 105%, preferably up to 110%, of the area of the actual glass pane 30 of the respective window 6, thereby providing efficient protection of the glass pane 30 as such.

[0081] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, and in order to even further improve the protection performance of the system, the protection panels 12 are designed for being installed at a distance of 7 cm to 10 cm to the glass pane 30 of the window 6, thereby providing a gap or space of 7 cm to 10 cm between the respective protection panel 12 of the wildfire protection panel system 10 and the window glass pane 30. This distance is selected such that the heat of the wildfire to approach the window glass is delayed even further as well as to allow the protection panel 12 in case of heavy airstrikes to have an accepted, calculated degree of flexibility to move without breaking.

[0082] Fig. 3 shows a protection panel 12 when mounted to the wall 2, in front view (Fig. 3a) and in back side view (Fig. 3b). Each panel segment 18 of the protection panel 12, as basic support structure, comprises the panel frame 14 attachable to or insertable into the window frame 16. The panel frame 14, for sake of stability, heat resistance, light weight and therefore enhanced handleability, is made from aluminum or any other light-weight, stable, preferably heat resistant material. As can be seen in Fig. 3, in particular in the view from the back side shown in Fig. 3b, protection panel 12 in this embodiment shown is constructed in a multi-segment design, comprising two panel frames 14 , each of which is provided for a respective panel segment 18. This design concept in a particular, preferred aspect of the invention, allows for high flexibility regarding the configuration of individual panels (according to the specific demands of an individual protection panel 12, number and relative positioning of the panel segments 18 may be chosen appropriately) while being particularly suitable for mass production technologies. In particular, the panel segments 18 may be produced as standard elements in high production numbers, thereby reducing the production costs considerably. The individualization of the respective protection panel 12 may then be effected by appropriate selection of the number and relative positions of the respective (standardized) panel segments 18. In addition, to the degree appropriate or necessary, further, indivualized panel segments 18 with customized dimensions may be provided.

[0083] Further, the standard and relatively small dimensions of the panel segment 18 in one aspect of the invention is considered particularly advantageous since it allows for easy storing and handling, since due to their potentially relatively small size they may be stored easily in various places in or around the respective house or home, whereas the final, potentially relatively big size of the completed and fully assembled protection panel 12 necessary for full coverage of individual windows only needs to be handled after the panels 12 have been assembled. In yet another aspect of the invention, the panel segments 18 may be detachably connected to each other by a number of connector elements 20, thereby providing the respective protection panel 12. In a preferred embodiment and in accordance with one aspect of the invention, as shown in Figs. 3b, 4, and 5, the connection elements 20 may be designed in form of connector plates engaged by bolts or rivets 22. The bolts or rivets 22 can be inserted into corresponding holes in the connector element 24 in a side area of the corresponding frame element 26 or the corresponding connector plate attached to a section of the panel frame 14. This design allows for a particularly easy and reliable connection at low costs, and is particularly suitable for pre-mounting of the protection panels 12 if needed. In particular, the connection may be designed in the way of a mortise and tenon joint. The connector elements 20 may be designed to assist with connecting the protection panel segments 18 to form the protection panels 12, so to create the wildfire protection panel system 10; they may be designed in form of bolts or rivets 22 that may be introduced into corresponding holes 24 in a side area of the respective frame element 26 or the respective connector plate attached to a segment of the panel frame 14. Also, the connector elements 20 may assist in connecting the wildfire protection panels 12 to the building wall 2 or window frame 6, in particular where premade adequate openings may be provided.

[0084] As may be seen in the enlarged excerpt in Fig. 5, similar bolt connections may also be used for connection to the inner window frame 16 of the window 6. Once the respective protection panel 12 or panel segment 18 is inserted into the window 6 by attaching it to the inner side walls of the window frame 16 of the opening or the building wall 2, snap-fit elements such as snap-fit or spring-loaded bolts 28 may be provided that upon mounting of the respective protection panel 12 or panel segment 18 may be inserted into corresponding, pre-installed holes 29 or openings in the building wall provided particularly for this purpose (Fig. 10).

[0085] The protection panel 12 is shown in a state mounted to the wall 2 in cross section in Fig. 6, which shows different installation methods. Fig. 6a shows a horizontal cross section and Fig. 6b shows a vertical cross section. As can be seen in Fig. 6a, b, the window 6 comprises an “inner” glass pane 30 and, in front thereof or oriented to the outside, i.e. towards a potential wildfire, a shutter or roller shutter element 32 of more or less conventional design. In mounted state, i. e. in the case of a fire emergency and when the protection panel 12 is attached to the window 6, it is positioned outside of the shutter or roller shutter 32 (and the glass pane 30, accordingly), facing towards the environment and the potential fire exposure. The “impact” of a wildfire here is symbolized by arrow 34. In Fig. 6a, b, the embodiment is shown in which the protection panel 12 with its outer panel frame 14 is positioned fittingly within the window frame 16.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, and in accordance with one aspect of the invention, the protection panel 12 is installed with a gap of at least 7 cm between the window glass pane 30 and the actual protection panel 12 as such. This distance ensures that the protection panel 12 does not come into direct contact with the window glass pane 30 and so increasing the time that the heat reaches a temperature that can break the glass. This has positive results because it increases the time it takes for the heat to reach a temperature that can break the glass and penetrate the interior of the house and destroy it.

[0087] In principle, the fire protection solution as provided by the panel based system 10 may be implemented by either one of three potential ways:

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 6a and b, the protection panel 12 is positioned “outside” of both the actual glass pane 30 of the window 6 and the shutter or roller shutter 32, i. e. between glass pane 30 and fire impact. In this setup, it faces the fire thereby effectively shielding both the glass and the shutter from the heat load from the fire.

[0089] In another embodiment, however, as shown in Fig. 6c, the protective panel 12 is placed between the shutter or roller shutter 32 and the glass pane 30. Installation in this embodiment of the invention may be done from the inside of the window pane 30 in case there is no access from the outside. Typical such cases are when there are many floors (ground floor, 1 , 2, 3) or windows are not accessible from the outside, resulting in this type of installation to be preferred. In this installation, in the event of a fire, the corresponding shutters or roller shutters 32 are likely to be destroyed, as no protection can be provided by the protection panel 12, since the protection panel 12 is installed behind the shutters or roller shutters 32. Nevertheless, in this case, the protection panel 12 will effectively protect the interior of building 1 and prevent the fire from entering the house, while also protecting the glass pane 30. Therefore, the possible destruction of the shutters or roller shutters 32 is the only possible damage, but it is not catastrophic for the house.

[0090] In yet another embodiment of the invention, as shown in Fig. 6d, the protection panel 12 instead may also be installed “behind” the glass pane 30 of the window, i. e. from the interior or inside of the building 1. This is particularly important for houses or buildings where protective screens 36 for mosquitoes or flies have been installed, or which have multiple floors (e.g., 1, 2, 3) where some windows are difficult to access from the outside. If a protective screens 36 for mosquitoes or flies has been installed, there may be no space to carry out the application as in Figure 6c. For example, windows without a balcony or other external access points required for the installation may necessitate installation from the inside. In this embodiment, upon an impact of a wildfire, destruction of the shutters or roller shutters 32, the protective screen 36 for mosquitoes or flies, and the respective glass panes 30 must be expected since no shielding effect from the protection panels 12 (in this case mounted behind the protection panel 12) may be obtained. Nevertheless, however, even in this case the protection panel 12 still will efficiently protect the interior of the building 1 and prevent the wildfire from actually entering the house.

[0091] The protection panels 12 and / or the segments 18 in accordance with one aspect of the invention are built in consequent light-weight design. In one aspect of the invention, in support of this design goal, each protection panel 12 comprises the heat shield membrane 15 or sheath. The membrane 15 spans the open width of the frame structure 14 of the respective protection panel 12, while also completely enveloping the actual panel frame structure 14, thereby protecting the panel frame 14 as well (Fig. 10). In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, in cross section in Fig. 7a and in exploded view in Fig. 7b, for a particularly high performance and durability of the heat shield, the heat shield membrane 15 or sheath comprises a structure of at least two layers 42, 44. The first layer 42 is the actual heat shield layer and made of lightweight material such as graphite, aerogel, aluminum, or a blend of these components, in a preferred embodiment selected properly to provide the maximum possible protection against heat and fire. In a preferred embodiment and in accordance with one aspect of the invention, the first, heat shielding layer 42, in a mounted state of the membrane 15, is the layer 42 directly facing the interior of the house or building 1.

[0092] The second layer 44, in turn, is a reinforcement support layer protecting the first layer 42 both mechanically (from mechanical stress etc) and from the impact of the fire, in particular from embers, firebrands and from the impact of airstrikes. According to one aspect of the invention, the second layer 44 in mounted state is the layer facing outwards, i. e. towards the fire. Preferably and in aspects of the invention, the second layer 44 may be made of woven glass fabric reinforced with stainless steel, coated with fire resistant aluminum. The layers 42, 44 are bonded together by appropriate bonding methods such as layer bonding or lamination. One method, in particular, may comprise connecting the two layers 42, 44 by using high-temperature resistant double-sided tape 46 as shown in Fig. 7a, 7b. In alternative embodiments and in accordance with further aspects of the invention, they may be bonded together by stitching, in particular by sewing with high-temperature fire- resistant thread. The layered design offers an exceptional fire resistance while maintaining a lightweight profile. In one aspect of the invention, the second layer 44 may be positioned atop the first layer 42 and thus, when mounted in the protection system, faces outwards from the building 1 and therefore towards the fire as symbolized by the arrow 34 in Fig. 7. The combination of the two layers 42, 44 into the heat shield membrane 15 synergistically enhances the properties of the individual materials, thereby in combination providing unexpectedly beneficial properties.

[0093] In one aspect of the invention, an example for which is shown in Fig. 8, one or more of the protection panels 12 may be provided with an additional outer frame 50 that surrounds the actual panel frame 14. This additional, preferably auxiliary, outer frame 50 may be particularly useful since using a single larger outer frame 50 instead of multiple panels simplifies and speeds up the installation process to cover and protect the openings. This approach is beneficial when the openings are relatively large, therefore requiring many panel segments 18, or if the building wall 2 makes the installation of many panel segments 18 difficult.

[0094] In yet another, independently inventive embodiment as shown in Fig. 9, the panel frame structure 14 may be equipped with additional reinforcement bars 52. Fig. 9a shows the panel frame structure 14 with various of such reinforcement bars 52, positioned in distances of about 20 - 30 cm adjacent to each other. In Fig. 9b, a panel frame structure 14 with one single reinforcement bar 52 is presented. In all cases, the additional reinforcement bars 52 are enclosed and protected from the high temperatures that develop by the heat shield membrane 15. The reinforcement bar(s) 52 in particular may provide increased structural stability and / or additional support in installations with large dimensions, while also supporting easier transportation for the system.

[0095] Further details of the panel frame structure 14 and the combination with the heat shield membrane 15, thereby forming the protection panel 12, are shown in the cross section of the protection panel 12 in Fig. 10. Among other details, Fig. 10 shows that the heat shield membrane 15 wraps around the respective section or segment 26 of the panel frame 14, thereby enveloping it fully for reliable fire protection. Further, the spring-loaded or snap-fit bolt 28 connecting the panel frame 14 to the inner window frame 16 of the window 6 is also shown in Fig. 10.

[0096] An alternative way of connecting the protection panel 12 to wall 2 of the house or to a window frame 16 is shown in Figure 11. In this embodiment, the respective protection panels 12 (or panel segments 18 if applicable) via their respective frames 14 are attached to the wall 2 of the building 1 by a connector system of a “quick lock” type, by providing individual key locks 54. In particular, the or each key lock 54 may be a hole 29 in the building wall, with the shape of the key lock. Correspondingly, the respective panel frame 14 (of the panel segment 18) is equipped with permanently installed matching bolts 28, each one corresponding to one of the key locks 54. In case of a wildfire danger, the bolts 28 are inserted into their respective, associated key locks 54, thereby allowing for a quick connection of the panel segment 18 to its designated place of installation, thus covering and protecting the window frame 16 and of course the glass pane 30. As in the previous case, here too, the user does not need any additional tools or means to proceed with the installation. As shown in Figure 11 , and more specifically with the use of the key lock 54, the installation is secure, stable, effective, does not require special knowledge or skills, and is also very quick. Consequently, the protection of this glass pane 30 and, by extension, of the house is effective.

[0097] Details of the “keylock” design are shown in Figs. 11b - 11d, in different perspectives / sec- tions. As can be seen in the top view of the key lock 54 shown in Fig. 11b, the key lock 54 comprises a front plate 56 with an integrated insertion contour 58. The insertion contour 58 comprises a widened opening 60 through which the bolt head 62 of the bolt 28 may be inserted. The widened opening 60 communicates with an attached slit-type section 64 into which the bolt 28 may be moved after the bolt head 62 is inserted through the insertion opening 60, thereby engaging firmly with the front plate 56 of the key lock. This design is shown in Fig. 11c, whereas Fig. 11 d shows the bolt 28 engaged with the key lock 54 (in cross section). Reference Numerals

[0098] 1 Building

[0099] 2 Wall

[0100] 6 Window

[0101] 10 Fire protection system

[0102] 12 Protection panel

[0103] 14 panel frame

[0104] 15 heat shield membrane

[0105] 16 window frame

[0106] 18 panel segments

[0107] 20 connector element

[0108] 22 rivet

[0109] 24 hole in the connector element

[0110] 26 frame element

[0111] 28 bolt

[0112] 29 hole in the building wall

[0113] 30 glass pane

[0114] 32 shutter or roller shutter

[0115] 34 arrow

[0116] 36 mosquito screen

[0117] 42 first layer

[0118] 44 second layer

[0119] 46 connection tape

[0120] 50 outer frame

[0121] 52 reinforcement bar

[0122] 54 key lock

[0123] 56 front plate

[0124] 58 insertion contour

[0125] 60 opening

[0126] 62 bolt head

[0127] 64 section

Claims

Claims1. Fire protection system (10) for a building (1), in particular a family home, comprising, for each of a number of selected openings in the outer wall (2) of the building (1), a protection panel (12) adapted in size to the respective opening and detachably mountable to the respective opening.

2. The fire protection system (10) according to claim 1 , in which one or all of the protection panels (12) are adapted to the size of the respective opening such that the area covered by each panel (12) is at least 110% of the area of a glass pane in the respective opening.

3. The fire protection system (10) of any of the preceding claims, in which each panel (12) comprises a panel frame (14) attachable to or insertable into the respective opening.

4. The fire protection system (10) of claim 3, wherein the panel frame (14) is made of aluminum.

5. The fire protection system (10) of any of the preceding claims, in which each panel (12) comprises a heat shield membrane (15).

6. The fire protection system (10) of claim 5, in which the heat shield membrane (15) comprises a structure of at least two layers (42, 44), wherein a first layer (42) is a shield layer of lightweight material, and wherein a second layer (44) is a reinforcement support layer.

7. The fire protection system (10) of any of the preceding claims in which one or all of the protection panels (12) each comprise a number of panel segments (18).

8. The fire protection system (10) of claim 7 in which adjacent panel segments (18) of the respective panel (12) are detachably connected to each other.

9. The fire protection system of any one of the preceding claims in which one or more of the panels (12) is provided with an additional outer frame (50) that surrounds the actual panel frame (14).

10. The fire protection system (10) of any of the preceding claims in which the protection panel (12) in mounted state is positioned at a distance of 7 - 10 cm from a glass pane (30) within the respective opening.

Images